The Swiss Business Awards have announced the winners of its first edition during an exclusive gala evening held at the Grand Hyatt Beijing on July 7th, 2013. More than 300 guests attended the event, including top economic and political leaders from both Switzerland and China. The ceremony was part of the official program of the delegation from Switzerland lead by Federal Councilor J. Schneider-Ammann coming to Beijing for the signature of the Free Trade Agreement between Switzerland and China.
“It is important to celebrate success, especially in times of uncertainty. A number of Swiss companies, large and small, have shown particular determination, courage, skill and hence success in their China business ventures. At the same time, Chinese entrepreneurs and businessmen have not been sleeping either and done a great job”, affirmed H.E. Ambassador Jacques de Watteville in his welcome address. "I am proud to see how successful and innovative Swiss enterprises are performing in China. I am proud to see how Chinese companies are successfully investing in Switzerland", affirmed H.E. Federal Councillor Schneider-Ammann in his opening speech.
The Swiss Business Awards is an event organized by the Swiss-Chinese Chamber of Commerce in Beijing to thank companies for their achievements over the past years and to recognize their contribution to both the Swiss and Chinese business communities. This is the first year that the Swiss Business Awards are organized in China. In five different categories, the Awards honored companies and individuals who have achieved distinct results and demonstrated the highest level of commitment to the Sino-Swiss community and the promotion of Switzerland in China.
SwissCham Beijing has invited all fully or partially Swiss-owned companies doing business in China as well as all Chinese companies or organizations with a strong link to Switzerland to participate in the Swiss Business Awards. The applications of the award candidates have been reviewed by an independent jury consisting of representatives of the SwissCham Board of Directors, the Swiss Embassy in Beijing, and the private sector.
The winners this year are
- ABB (China) Ltd. for the Nestlé Innovator of the Year
- Holcim Ltd. for the China Haidian CSR Company of the Year
- Swisstouches Hotels & Resorts for the Startup of the Year
- Nestlé (China) Ltd. for Outstanding Achievements
- Sinopec (Addax Petroleum) for Chinese Investor in Switzerland
Courtesy of SwissCham Beijing; for more information visit SwissCham Beijing’s website.